Seoul:South Korea has expressed appreciation for Bangladesh's interest in bolstering bilateral defence relations, signaling readiness to explore enhanced cooperation in agreed sectors such as training, capacity-building, and peacekeeping.
According to United News of Bangladesh, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir met with Korean First Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Park Yoon-joo and Vice Minister of National Defense Lee Doo-hee in Seoul. The discussions focused on political and economic cooperation, reaffirming the shared commitment to strengthen the long-standing partnership between Bangladesh and South Korea.
During discussions with Vice Minister Park, Kobir conveyed Bangladesh's eagerness to deepen friendly relations with South Korea and delivered an invitation from Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to South Korean President Lee Jae Myung to visit Bangladesh. Kobir highlighted Korea's transformation into a global leader and expressed satisfaction with ongoing consultations and exchanges, emphasizing support for stability on the Korean Peninsula.
Progress towards finalizing the Bangladesh-Korea Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) was welcomed by Kobir, who advocated for increased trade and investment. He sought enhanced market access for Bangladeshi products and encouraged Korean investment in sectors like semiconductors, electronics, shipbuilding, and ICT.
Kobir also highlighted opportunities for cooperation in agriculture, logistics, digital transformation, and skills development. He sought Korean support for employment opportunities for Bangladeshi workers through the Employment Permit System and emphasized collaboration in climate resilience, infrastructure, education, and digital technologies. Appreciation was expressed for Korea's humanitarian aid to the Rohingya and continued support for their repatriation to Myanmar.
In meetings with Vice Minister Lee, both sides discussed strengthening bilateral defence cooperation. Kobir appreciated Korea's role in training Bangladesh's armed forces and sought continued opportunities for specialized training. He invited Korean military personnel to participate in courses offered by the Bangladesh Armed Forces and shared plans for establishing a defence industrial zone, encouraging Korean investment and collaboration.